Final Four Predictions 2017: Early Projections Following NCAA Bracket Release

It’s time for bracketologists to crunch the numbers and give their opinions on seedings while millions rack their brains to make accurate predictions after the 2017 NCAA bracket release.

Of course, the blue-blood programs are well represented in the top seeds, but tournament champions will create some excitement along the way. In an uplifting scene, Northwestern celebrated its first NCAA Tournament berth in school history.

As expected, Kansas and North Carolina, who lost in their league tournaments still earned No. 1 seeds due to a strong body of work during the season. Will they win out in their regions to reach the Final Four?

Villanova Returns to Final Four

Last year, Villanova won a thriller against North Carolina in the NCAA Championship Game, and they’re still hungry for success. The Wildcats shouldn’t have an issue reaching the Elite Eight, but Duke will likely meet them for a showdown in the East Region. Blue Devils head coach Mike Krzyzewski has found a way to tap into guard Grayson Allen's full potential at the right time.

The Wildcats will go into the tournament with some swagger and the fewest losses for a reigning champion since the 2001-02 Duke team, per ESPN Stats and Info:

Villanova senior guard Jason Hart still beats as the team’s pulse and puts up solid numbers. He’s the leading scorer and rebounder on the team with tenacious play on the defensive end, averaging 1.6 steals per game. Fellow guard Jalen Brunson’s ability to distribute the ball will help spread Duke’s defense on attack mode.

Arizona Avoids Disappointment This Year

Last year, Arizona went down earlier than expected in a 65-55 loss to Witchita State in the opening round as a No 6 seed. After an embarrassing loss, head coach Sean Miller comes back with vengeance on his mind. The Wildcats just won the Pac-12 tournament and look polished and poised for a long tournament run. 

In the West Region, they’ll meet Gonzaga who put together another strong season. Based on an underwhelming tournament track record, skeptics doubt the Bulldogs’ ability to reach the Final Four. They’ll fall to a stronger team who’s still tasting a poor loss from the previous year.

At the top of the roster, guard Allonzo Trier and forward Lauri Markkanen form a duo that should take this team through the region. Markkanen, the 7-footer can play inside or outside depending on the matchup. During the Pac-12 tournament, he nailed four three-pointers and back-to-back games. Obviously, he’s also tough to defend inside. Alongside Trier, the big man in the middle will tilt the balance in Arizona’s favor.

Iowa State Makes Surprise Appearance

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Iowa State head coach Steve Prohm deserves credit for keeping the program afloat after Fred Hoiberg decided to leave for a bigger challenge as the Chicago Bulls head coach.

The Cyclones went through a tough road to win the Big 12 tournament, which culminated in an exhilarating win over a physical West Virginia team in the title game. Guard Monte Morris delivered as a star on the roster, and he’ll lead a team who’s going to be a tough out in the NCAA tournament. 

Pay close attention to guard Deonte Burton who carries a big body, but found his shot during the tournament. At 250 pounds, he’ll muscle small defenders into the paint, but he can also spot up when facing taller adversaries.

Iowa State will have to knock off a Kansas team that suffered a bad loss to Texas Christian University early in the Big 12 tournament.

Kentucky Takes Tough Road to Final Four

By far, Kentucky will take the toughest road to the Final Four. In the South Region, John Calipari’s group will likely meet NBA prospect Lonzo Ball in the Sweet 16 Round followed by North Carolina in the Elite 8.

Fortunately, the Wildcats have the firepower to outlast their opponents. After an early exit in last year’s tournament, Kentucky's loaded roster looks primed for a championship run.

Forward Edrice Adebayo threatens to finish with a double-double anytime he steps on the court. He missed that mark in the last two SEC tournament games by one rebound.

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Against Arkansas in the SEC title game, senior guard Dominique Hawkins stepped up on both ends of the court. Despite averaging 18.8 minutes per game, his leadership will factor into the team’s poise. Above all, guard De’Aaron Fox, who was exceptional during the SEC tournament will put this team over the hump in crunch time.